Community Forums

ziaptrn · 11-26-2017, 10:03 PM

Hello all -
I have a new-to-us 04 Winnebago Vectra with Allison 3000MH. The rig drives well and shifts very smoothly, no complaints whatsoever.
That being said - is there any reason to update the firmware in the transmission? Previous maintenance records are sketchy, and I'd doubt it has ever been flashed.
So....if all is working well, does "if it ain't broke..." apply, or is this something that I should investigate further? (I have the same question for the Cummins 350 ISC firmware as well...runs perfectly...any need to update?)
Thanks for any assistance.

Mr_D · 11-26-2017, 10:05 PM

I've never had the firmware updated on any of the Allison trans. I've owned, three so far.

Bigd9 · 11-27-2017, 05:33 AM

Me either. Never thought I needed it.

edge68474 · 11-27-2017, 05:44 AM

If it's running good, keep driving it. The only time I hear flashing, is if something is wrong. Just change the oil and filter at the proper time. Unless your a mechanic with the right equipment, get it done professionally.
Have a Good Day.

ziaptrn · 11-27-2017, 07:32 AM

Routine maintenance is a must, I agree completely.
I was mostly wondering because some things do function better with upgraded firmware - I'm thinking cell phones, electronic equipment, etc.
I've also had devices that work fine before the 'upgrade' work less well after the 'improvements' are made.
I like to think I know enough to leave well enough alone when there are no problems. But ask my spouse....LOL.

CountryB · 11-27-2017, 08:59 AM

Call Allison service center and see if they can tell you what the firmware update does. If you call, you should have the transmission "serial number" available.

I'm like you, and think that if Allison went to the trouble of writing the code for this update, it must be important. It may be something that prolongs the life of the transmission.

les.warden · 11-27-2017, 01:18 PM

IMHO I’d follow CountryB advice. An update may be doing something internally that you would never “feel” while driving. Like readjusting some hi/low/engagement parameters or changing how an actuator engages/disengages. A phone call will only relieve your thirst to know more. Safe travels!

Cat320 · 11-27-2017, 06:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mr_D

I've never had the firmware updated on any of the Allison trans. I've owned, three so far.

,

Ditto, I've had a 1000, 3000 and 4000.

ziaptrn · 11-29-2017, 03:55 PM

Update -
So, I called Allison Transmission this afternoon, and the response was "No need to update anything due to the age (design) of the transmission." Even if you did update the software (it's possible), there isn't anything really open to modification electronically on Allison RV transmissions until 2014. In 2014, modifications to the transmission design and build do allow for more sensitive adjustments, etc. to how the transmission functions based on software.
So...for those of us with 'older' rigs (somehow, 2004 just doesn't seem old to me!!!) - there is no need from Allison's perspective to have the transmission ROM flashed to upgrade.
Just thought I'd share, and thanks for the responses.